Raccoon droppings pose a health risk: Alarming studies warn!

Raccoon feces pose significant health risks, as various recent reports have found. The raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) in particular is a serious threat. This parasitic infestation often remains asymptomatic, but can lead to severe organizational and neurological damage, which is particularly dangerous for small children and dogs. Raccoon feces can contain up to 200 specimens of the roundworm, whose eggs are excreted in feces and can survive for a long time in the environment, especially when temperatures are mild, such as Chip.de reported.

Because young children often explore their surroundings by crawling and grasping, they are particularly susceptible to the infection. Dogs can also become infected and spread the parasites.

Scientific findings on raccoon populations

In addition, a study by Frankfurt researchers published in the “International Journal for Parasitology” found that raccoon populations in European cities are continually increasing, which poses potential health risks for both humans and animals. The climatic conditions promote the development of the raccoon roundworm, with temperatures between 10 and 30 degrees Celsius being optimal. Above 35 degrees Celsius, on the other hand, lead to developmental problems. According to aktuelles.uni-frankfurt.de, climate change is not only responsible for the spread of raccoons in Europe, but also for the increased predation pressure on native species.

Raccoon roundworm eggs are temperature sensitive, requiring extreme temperatures to kill them. In Europe, temperatures below minus 15 degrees Celsius or above 60 degrees Celsius are rare, increasing the survivability of eggs in latrine places. Future climate changes could further increase the number of infectious eggs, increasing the risk to many mammals, including humans. There is an urgent need to develop surveillance and management strategies to control this invasive species and the associated health risks.